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Distributed for Dalton Watson Fine Books

The Automotive Alchemist

A vividly illustrated celebration of the singular automotive designer.
 

Andy Saunders is a joyfully singular figure in the world of automotive design. The holder of three Guinness Book of Records titles, Saunders brings his unique vision to every project he takes on, whether it’s the restoration of a classic car or the unveiling of a new custom design. The Automotive Alchemist tells the story of Saunders’ charismatic life and work through an examination of sixty of his cars. Saunders welcomes readers into his workshop and his mind: not afraid to express his emotions, as he deconstructs and then rebuilds each vehicle, he lays bare his motivations, inspirations, influences, and passions. Intertwined with Saunders’ biography are detailed depictions of the work involved in the creation of his cars, described here with more than one thousand photographs. The Automotive Alchemist is not only a tribute to a remarkable automotive design talent, but a celebration of the creative spirit in all its forms.

464 pages | 1055 images | 11 1/2 x 8 1/2 | © 2022

Language and Linguistics: Philosophy of Language


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Reviews

"Few car builders can lay claim to such a diverse portfolio as Andy Saunders. More than 60 of his creations are profiled in this lavishly produced autobiography, and Saunders' humour and unique inventiveness make it a constant delight."

Octane

"The definitive account of [Andy Saunders's] work so far."

Classic.Retro.Modern.

"The Automotive Alchemist book explains the passions, motivations, and inspirations behind each of charismatic design genius Andy's creations, along with this aesthetic and technical processes. . . . A compelling and endlessly enjoyable read."

Magneto

"Saunders really is an artist, one whose medium is cars. . . . A unique and vital chapter in the story of car design and coachbuilding skill."

Classic Cars

"Compelling, intriguing, heart-warming, and, at times, devastatingly honest, this book is as thoroughly enjoyable as it is beautifully crafted."

Mini Magazine

"Andy Saunders is a very well known name in the scene, and indeed beyond. But seldom has there been a better example of someone who lets their cars do the talking. . . . This is a vast, lavish and beautiful book, but one whose appeal is never  just skin deep; in it, you will find glorious illustrations without end but, more importantly, a treasure trove of knowledge and experience as told by one of the world's most prolific and creative car builders -- and, as it turns out, a beguiling storyteller, too."

Custom Car Magazine

Winner

Graham Robson Award for Best Debut Author, Royal Automobile Club Motoring Book of the Year Awards

"Like Andy’s custom creations, this is a unique and very special motoring book, a fabulous autobiographical true story; I thoroughly enjoyed working my way through it from cover to cover. Indeed I couldn’t put it down."

Wheels-Alive!

Table of Contents

Foreword
Introduction
A Little Boy’s Dream
Bird Puller
Jagged Edge
Exquisite Dream
Rainbow Chaser
Mini HaHa
Indecision
Thundercat
Claustrophobia
Westovers
Run-A-Ground
Asorta Transporta
Rainbow Chaser 2
1750 Mini
Incantation
Audition
1965 Rolls
Pontiac Motorhome
Scott’s Mini
Mk11 Zodiac
1936 Cord
DC Influences
X2000
Zagato
Mini HaHa 2 + 3
Empress
Wild Wheels & Grease Machines
Cart + RC 3
Panic Mechanic
Saline Warrior
Mentally Insane
Monster Gar
Aurora
Goodwood
Into The Dark
Zoomer
Stratos Zero
Flat Out
Picasso Citroen
All Ego
Hyundai
Alchemist
Beach Buggy
Van Cake
Edge of Implosion
Bella
Deltawing
Tarot
Crampervan
Panhard
Tempo
Nissan Skip
Expansion of Consciousness
Hesperus
Tetanus
Metropolis
Art of Kustom
Angelina Icon
Sundancer
Deja
The End
Abbreviations
Where They Are

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